Procreate Tutorial: “Underwater” by Karla Alcazar

"This is a scene from a dream I had a few years ago, but I still think about it quite often.

In the dream, I was in a dark cave, riding a friendly fish that somehow knew the way out. I was holding a giant lit match, and even though I was underwater, the light guiding me and my fish friend was incredibly bright.

I'm not sure how we ended up in that cave or what was outside. I'm hoping that one day, another dream will give me the answer!" - Karla Alcazar

Karla Alcazar’s enchanting illustration, Underwater, transports viewers into an aquatic world filled with unique quirks. With vibrant underwater elements, Karla captures both tranquility and charm, embracing the creative imperfections and playfulness of art.

Follow this step-by-step tutorial to see Karla's creative process in action, plus learn how to make your very own version of this dreamlike piece.

Recommended Procreate Brushes

For this piece, Karla used the KolorMac (by True Grit Texture Supply) brushes.

To add extra details, Karla then used the native HB Pencil brush.

Step-by-Step Tutorial from Karla

Ready to have your own attempt at this piece? Here's Karla's instructions on how to make this enchanting art:

Step 1: Sketching

I started out with a sketch. Since I already had a really clear image of what I wanted to draw, I didn't need to get many references. Sometimes I like to separate elements that I've drawn into layers, because it helps me with the coloring process.

Step 2: Choose a Color Palette

Then I decided on a color palette. I really wanted to use dark navy and deep purple in this illustration, so I decided on adding another 4 colors to stay a bit minimal.

Step 3: Apply the Color Placement

Here, I played with the color placement.

I find this part of the process super exciting; placing colors within the composition can be sometimes tricky, but also super fun. It's especially if you work with a very limited color palette!

Step 4: Add the Smaller Flowers

Once I was happy with the color placement, I started to add color.

When I'm coloring, I like to lower the opacity of the layer I'm working on. I feel I have a better grasp of shapes this way, and this can also be useful if the brush you're using has some bleed to it.

Step 5: Add the Details

Then, I like to add details.

This part is so much fun, I try to add color contrasts and also texture (which I love, especially if my colors are flat).

I also created a new layer and set it to multiply, and then added shadows. I also added a background.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Lastly, I used the Paper texture, set to multiply, and also a purple color fill, set to Color Burn at 22%.

I find that this helps with overall texture and bring out the colors a bit more.

Final Result

Don't forget to sign your own work!